🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Citroën

Model:

BX

Year:

1987

Body Style:

Hatchback & Estate (Break)

Market Segment:

Compact/Small Family Car

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Citroën BX was a key model in the French manufacturer's lineup during the late 20th century, positioned as a practical and innovative family car that offered a unique blend of comfort and performance, often competing with models like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Escort, and Peugeot 309.

Design Philosophy:

Characterized by its distinctive wedge-shaped, aerodynamic design penned by Marcello Gandini of Bertone, and its advanced hydropneumatic suspension system, offering exceptional ride comfort and self-leveling capabilities.

Target Audience:

Owners seeking to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, aiming to save on labor costs and extend the vehicle's lifespan. Also valuable for classic car enthusiasts and independent mechanics specializing in Citroën vehicles.

Value Proposition:

Empowers owners with factory-level knowledge, enabling them to confidently maintain and repair their Citroën BX, leading to significant cost savings and a deeper understanding of their vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Styles Covered, General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Brake System, Wiring Diagram, Electrical System, Suspension, Periodic Lubrication, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection/Fuel System, Emission System, Heater/Air Conditioning, Engine Control System, Chassis/Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential/Drive, Axle, and more.

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Manual Source:

Official Factory Manuals (Genuine)

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Download Format:

Digital Download

Estimated Page Count:

Hundreds of pages (specific number not provided, but implies a comprehensive document).

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Management, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Driveshafts, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Hydraulic Systems (Hydropneumatic Suspension), Steering System, Brake System (Front/Rear Discs, Hydraulic Assistance), Parking Brake, Electrical System (Lighting, Instrumentation, Accessories, Wiring Diagrams), Body and Chassis, Climate Control (Heater, Ventilation, Air Conditioning), Interior Trim, Safety Systems (Seatbelts), Wheels and Tires, Diagnostic Procedures, Lubrication and Maintenance.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Component Removal and Installation, Component Reassembly and Adjustment, Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Procedures, Repair Procedures, Overhaul Procedures, Lubrication Schedules, Torque Specifications, Electrical System Diagnosis and Repair, Wiring Harness Repair, Hydraulic System Servicing, Suspension Geometry Adjustment, Brake System Bleeding and Adjustment, Engine Tuning and Adjustment, Emission Control System Servicing.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and detailed illustrations.

📊 Manual Specifications

Print Quality:

High Resolution, Printable (Individual pages or entire manual)

Search Functionality:

Searchable PDF, allowing for quick location of specific information.

User Skill Requirement:

Suitable for both novice owners and professional technicians; no advanced computer skills required.

Delivery Method:

Instant Download Post-Payment

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

Operating Systems:

Windows and Mac OS

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine Variants:

The 1987 BX was available with a range of petrol and diesel engines. Common petrol engines included the 1.4L (TU3 series), 1.6L (XU5 series), and 1.9L (XU9 series), with variations like carbureted and fuel-injected versions. Diesel options typically included the 1.9L naturally aspirated and turbocharged XUD diesel engines.

Power Output Range:

Power outputs varied significantly by engine, generally ranging from approximately 60 hp for the base 1.4L to over 100 hp for the 1.9L GTI variants. Diesel engines typically produced between 60-75 hp.

Fuel Delivery Systems:

Varied from simple Weber or Solex carburetors on smaller engines to Bosch LE2-Jetronic or similar fuel injection systems on higher-performance petrol models. Diesel engines utilized Lucas or Bosch injection pumps.

Ignition Type:

Typically electronic ignition systems (distributor-based with electronic control) for petrol engines.

Cooling Type:

Liquid-cooled, with engine-driven water pump and fan, often featuring thermostatic control.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Manual transmission (typically 4 or 5-speed).

Optional Transmission:

Optional automatic transmission was available on some models.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Refer to manual for specific fluid types (e.g., GL-4 gear oil for manual transmissions, ATF for automatics).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2,600 mm (102.4 inches) for most models.

Length:

Hatchback: Approx. 4,060 mm (159.8 inches), Estate: Approx. 4,250 mm (167.3 inches).

Width:

Approx. 1,620 mm (63.8 inches).

Height:

Hatchback: Approx. 1,350 mm (53.1 inches), Estate: Approx. 1,360 mm (53.5 inches).

Curb Weight:

Varies by model and engine, typically ranging from 950 kg to 1,150 kg.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Refer to vehicle's VIN plate for specific GVW rating.

Estate Cargo Volume:

Significant cargo space in the Estate model, with folding rear seats for expanded capacity.

🛡️ Safety Features

Passive Safety Features:

Seat belts (front and rear), safety crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on most models), responsive steering, self-leveling suspension contributing to stable handling.

Restraint System Details:

Front seat belts. Later models or higher trims might have featured optional or standard front seat belt pre-tensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic for its era, typically featuring an AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player. Speakers usually located in doors and rear parcel shelf.

Driver Assistance Systems:

Limited by 1987 standards. Key features include power steering (often speed-sensitive depending on model) and the advanced hydropneumatic suspension which actively maintained ride height and improved stability.

Lighting Systems:

Halogen headlights for improved visibility. Interior lighting for cabin and boot.

Engine Management Systems:

Early electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems were present on higher-specification petrol models, managed by engine control units (ECUs) for optimized fuel and ignition timing.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000 - 10,000 km (3,000 - 6,000 miles) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Critical maintenance item for timing belt driven engines (e.g., XU series petrol and diesel). Interval typically 60,000 - 80,000 km (37,000 - 50,000 miles) or 4-5 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Engine Oil Specification:

Various grades depending on engine and climate, commonly 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SF/CD or higher. Consult manual for precise recommendations.

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture. Refer to manual for specific concentration and type (e.g., long-life or traditional).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid. Critical to use the correct type for ABS and non-ABS systems if applicable.

Hydropneumatic Suspension Fluid:

Citroën LHM (Liquide Hydraulique Minéral) fluid. Use only the specified mineral-based fluid to avoid system damage.

Common Issues:

Hydropneumatic suspension leaks (especially sphere seals, hose connections, and pump seals), electrical gremlins (corrosion in connectors, faulty relays), wear in suspension arms and bushings, aging fuel lines, potential carburetor or fuel injection system issues, corrosion on bodywork (wheel arches, sills).

Part Number Availability:

The manual provides detailed diagrams and part identification, crucial for sourcing correct replacement parts for this classic vehicle.

📚 Vehicle History

Citroen Heritage:

Citroën has a long-standing reputation for innovation and avant-garde design, known for pioneering technologies like hydropneumatic suspension (first seen on the DS) and front-wheel drive.

Bx Evolution:

The BX was launched in 1982 as a replacement for the ageing GS. The 1987 model represents a mid-lifecycle update, often featuring minor styling revisions and potential powertrain improvements. The BX family also included various engine sizes and performance variants (e.g., BX Sport, BX GTI).

Production Period:

The Citroën BX was produced from 1982 to 1994. The 1987 model falls within the early to mid-production run.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured at Citroën's plants in France (e.g., Rennes-la-Janais) and later in other countries through CKD (Completely Knocked Down) kits.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Acclaim:

While specific awards for the 1987 model year are not prominently documented, the Citroën BX series was generally well-received for its comfort, innovative suspension, and distinctive styling, earning a strong following among enthusiasts.